Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Around the world, local governments use GIS to improve decision making, service delivery, and citizen engagement. Since most government data is location based, the latest in GIS technology provides the tools needed to make our community better. Operations run more smoothly, and citizens have more positive experiences.

What is GIS?

GIS is an information system that allows data to be analyzed spatially. GIS links geographic features (e.g., subdivision lots) with attributes or records in a database that stores owner information, sale date, assessed value, etc). In a GIS, spatial relationships between map features can be analyzed such as which properties are within 300 feet of a selected property. Also, spatial relationships can be created by overlaying multiple layers to answer questions, for example:

Where are the voting precinct and voting locations in the city?
Is the location in an area prone to flooding?
What land use and zoning is allowed for a particular property?

What is the Role of GIS in Central Services?

City GIS staff have the following responsibilities:

Provide City departments with accurate spatial information and analysis tools.

Create and maintain GIS layers in a central database accessible by the City network.